The UK will become the first country in Europe and second country in the world to implement plain, standardised packaging of tobacco products.

The move follows Australia’s lead: that country implemented plain packaging in December 2012.

A clear majority of UK MPs (367) voted in favour of plain packaging on 11 March 2015, and the House of Lords passed the measure on 16 March. Plain packs are expected to be on UK store shelves by 20 May 2016.

Legislation is also pending in Ireland, and under formal consideration in France, Norway, Sweden, Finland and New Zealand. Norway announced on 17 March that it has started public consultations on the measure.